There could be at least one candidate from Western Massachusetts to run in a special election for a U.S. Senate seat next year.

Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, 31, a Pittsfield Democrat, said he is considering a bid for the Senate post and will be meeting with people across the state during the next few weeks to test the waters. Downing said he will take a hard look at a possible candidacy to fill the unexpired term of Sen. John F. Kerry, who was nominated to become the next secretary of state.

“When there is a vacancy, I'll be ready to make a decision," Downing said in a phone interview.

The region's two U.S. House members - Reps. Richard E. Neal of Springfield and James P. McGovern of Worcester - will not be candidates for the Senate seat, according to spokes people for Neal and McGovern.

Downing said it would be "part of the calculus" for his decision if Edward M. Kennedy Jr. jumps into the contest.

"People are open to a fresh face, someone who will bring new energy and new ideas," he said.

Downing's father, Gerard D. Downing, who died in 2003, was district attorney in Berkshire County for 13 years. Downing was first elected to the state Senate in 2006.

Downing said he would have to run strong in central and western Massachusetts if he did become a candidate for Senate. He described himself as "a pragmatic-progressive, reform-minded Democrat."

Downing has an important event coming up. He is scheduled to be married to Micaelah Morrill in nine days.

"I want to congratulate Senator Kerry on his nomination for Secretary of State," Downing said in a statement. "He has been a tremendous senator for the commonwealth of Massachusetts and the United States, and I know he will represent our nation with honor and courage in the face of difficult international challenges.

We are on the verge of a new era of America opportunity, and voters want new voices and new ideas. While there will be no vacancy until Senator Kerry is confirmed, in the next few weeks I will be meeting with people throughout the commonwealth as I consider a run for senate. In the meantime, I hope that all residents of Massachusetts have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and take a break from politics over the next week to enjoy some time with their families.”